The Illinois Track Club’s 2017 season ran into finals week as several athletes chose to compete in the Dr. Keeler Invitational at D3 powerhouse North Central College. The two day meet started off with David Choi in the 10k. David needs no introduction: his consistency is second to none, his mileage count towers over everyone else with 12-14 mile long runs and 60-80 mile weeks, he is a staple of the distance squad. He is a true student of the sport and finished the last practice of his club running career with the goal of making top 10 for the club 10k leaderboard. Coming off a string of successful 5k’s, his aspirations were more than realistic: they were as probable. The time needed to crack the top 10 was around 33:20 (5:22/mi pace) and David destroyed that time running competitively in 32:32.36 and establishing himself comfortable for #6 all time. We couldn’t be more proud of David or grateful for all he has given this club.
As most runners took their well earned rest after Club Peaks, Josh Feldman kept his foot on the accelerator and prepared for his 1500m debut. He walked onto the track well rested from finals with goals of competing well and running around 4:10. Josh, a long distance fiend, had been sharpening his speed in several track sessions with Alex Lindsay. Josh ran aggressively, surging on the straightaways and staying outside to avoid the traffic and have room for his 65 second finish. With a strong kick, Josh ran a phenomenal 4:08, one of the best 1500 times this season. Josh will be resting his legs and returning in the fall for cross country where his work ethic and dedication will shake NIRCA to its core.
Beau “Hype Train” Barber reached his final station this season where he ran the 200 and 400. His never ending enthusiasm took him 25.65 and 56.35 in his races. Another mid D stud, Mario Barenas ran 26.10 and 57.07 to end his season. Both these gentlemen took the initiative by organizing and attending practices after Club Peaks, securing track access whenever possible. Yemi ran his best 200 time since 2015 in 23.71 to end a solid season.
Thomas Nute, excuse me, COACH Thomas Nute is not one to boast. He’s kind and humble but doesn’t hesitate to let the world know that he will have the outdoor shot put record. Considering the fact that he has added almost a meter since Club Peaks just two weeks ago, there doesn’t seem to be anything stopping this man. He threw a PR of 12.91m in the shot put, good for a #3 club performance as a freshman. As of now, there is only 3 years (average lifespan of a female panther chameleon) and .45 meters (approximately the length of a giraffe’s tongue or 1.5 cereal boxes) away from the coveted #1 spot.
The Illinois Track and Field Club closes out a memorable 2017 season with successful goals and goodbyes. New coaches, new board members, and new athletes will surely propel us into a successful 2018 season.